Investigation of Urotensin II expression in placenta and umbilical cord in pregnancies with intrauterine growth restriction by histological and biochemical methods.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, it was aimed to investigate Urotensin II in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and its connection to autophagy and/or apoptosis in placenta and umbilical cord by immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 30 healthy pregnant women and 30 pregnant women with IUGR, aged 19-45, at Atatürk University Gynecology Clinic. Samples were collected from placenta, umbilical cord, maternal blood, and umbilical cord blood during delivery. Histopathological examination was carried out on placenta and umbilical cord, and UTII, Beclin 1, and caspase 3 expressions were analyzed in these tissues. Biochemical analysis was performed on maternal and umbilical cord serum samples. RESULTS: In healthy placentas, normal villus formation was seen, but those with IUGR showed accelerated villus maturation, causing inadequate nutrition and development. IUGR placentas had fibrin deposition, villous edema, syncytial nodes increase, and intervillous distance. Umbilical cords of IUGR group had differences in vessel wall thickness, arterial lumens, and vessel number. Higher levels of UTII, Beclin 1, and caspase 3 were found in IUGR placenta and cord. Beclin 1 and caspase 3 levels were significantly higher in IUGR group compared to controls, while UTII levels were not significantly different in maternal and cord serums. CONCLUSION: As a result of our findings, UTII increase in placenta and umbilical cord may lead to IUGR formation by inducing autophagy and apoptosis.

A study on the possible neurotoxic effects of CUMYL-4CN-BINACA in Sprague Dawley rats.

Substances such as Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol cross the blood-brain barrier. Detecting the damage of these substances in the brain provides important data in drug abuse studies. The aim of the study is to define the neurotoxicity of a novel synthetic cannabinoid (CUMYL-4CN-BINACA) in the Sprague-Dawley rats. Histopathological, immunohistochemical, behavioral, and biochemical examinations were performed to determine the acute and subacute toxicity of the cannabinoid. Three cannabinoid doses were administered for 2 days in the acute exposure groups and 14 days in the subacute exposure groups. Observations were made for 14 days and various changes such as mortality, injury, and illness were recorded daily. No mortality was determined. Serious pathological changes such as neurodegeneration, focal plague formation, vacuolation, edema, congestion, and fibrosis were observed in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of the brain in a dose-dependent manner. Brain tissue caspase-3 activity showed that the cannabinoid triggered apoptosis in the rat brain. The detected cellular oxidative stress (higher lipid peroxidation and lower antioxidant enzyme activity) also supported neurotoxicity. Significant behavioral abnormalities were also observed in the acute groups, while no behavioral changes were detected in the subacute groups. This study showed for the first time that CUMYL-4CN-BINACA adversely affects the rat brain. It can be estimated that the abuse of the cannabinoid may harm human health in the same way.

Acute and subacute toxic effects of CUMYL-4CN-BINACA on male albino rats.

PURPOSE: There is very little information about the toxicological and pathological effects of synthetic cannabinoids, which have cannabis-like properties. This study was carried out to histopathologically, hematologically, and biochemically determine the toxic effects of acute and subacute exposure to a novel synthetic cannabinoid 1-(4-cyanobutyl)-N-(2-phenylpropan-2-yl)indazole-3-carboxamide in internal organs of adult male rats. METHODS: The cannabinoid was injected intraperitoneally at three doses (0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg/kg, body weight). The cannabinoid was administered to acute groups for 2 days and to subacute groups for 14 days. Observations were made for 14 days and various changes such as mortality, injury, and illness were recorded daily. Hematological and biochemical changes were evaluated and histopathological analyses in lung, liver, and kidney tissues were also performed. RESULTS: No mortality was observed. It was observed that there were fluctuations in hematological and serum biochemical parameters. Among the oxidative stress parameters, significant decreases in superoxide dismutase, catalase levels and significant increases in lipid peroxidation levels were determined. Serious pathological changes such as necrosis, vacuolation, congestion, and fibrosis were observed in the internal organs in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. It was also found that the synthetic cannabinoid triggered apoptosis in the organs. The results demonstrated that the most affected organ by the cannabinoid was the kidney. CONCLUSION: This study showed for the first time that CUMYL-4CN-BINACA adversely affects healthy male albino rats. It can be estimated that the abuse of the cannabinoid may harm human health in the same way.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Boric Acid in Treating Knee Osteoarthritis: Biochemical and Histopathological Evaluation in Rat Model.

This study aimed to examine the anti-inflammatory properties of boric acid (BA) in treating knee osteoarthritis (KOA) in rats, evaluating its biochemical and histopathological therapeutic effects. A KOA rat model was induced by injecting monosodium iodoacetate into the knee joint. Random assignment was performed for the experimental groups as follows: group-1(control), group-2(KOA control), group-3 (BA:4 mg/kg, orally), group-4(BA:10 mg/kg, orally), group-5(BA:4 mg/kg, intra-articularly), and group-6(BA:10 mg/kg, intra-articularly). The rats received 100 µL of BA intra-articularly on days 1, 7, 14, and 21 or 1 mL orally once a day (5 days/week) for 4 weeks. Serum levels of interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and activity of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) were measured. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed on knee joint samples using specific antibodies for IL-1ß, TNF-α, MMP-13, and nitric oxide synthase-2 (NOS-2). Group-2 exhibited higher serum IL-1ß and TNF-α levels and MMP-13 activity than group-1 (P < 0.05). However, IL-1ß and TNF-α levels and MMP-13 activity were lower in all treatment groups than in group-2, with statistically significant reductions observed in groups-4, 5, and 6. Histopathologically, group-2 displayed joint space narrowing, cartilage degeneration, and deep fissures. Groups-5 and 6 demonstrated significant joint space enlargement, articular cartilage tissue regeneration, and immunostaining patterns similar to those in group-1. Immunohistochemically, group-2 showed significant increases in IL-1ß, TNF-α, MMP-13, and NOS-2 expression. However, all treatment groups exhibited reductions in these expression levels compared to group-2, with statistically significant decreases observed in groups-5 and 6 (P < 0.01). BA shows potential efficacy in reducing inflammation in experimental KOA model in rats. It may be a promising therapeutic agent for KOA, warranting further clinical studies for validation.

Estimating basilar artery upper rupture limit by dangerous alarming diameter of arteries (DADA) following bilateral common carotid artery ligation; a new theorem.

BACKGROUND: Although many theories have been established to explain the mechanism of aneurysm development following steno-occlusive or hypertensive disease, the effect of the geometrical shape of the inner elastic membrane on the maximum dilatation capacity of arteries has not been adequately investigated so far. This subject was investigated. METHODS: This study was conducted in 24 rabbits. The rabbits were divided into 3 groups: as the control, (n = 5), the SHAM (n = 5), and the study group (n = 14). In the study group, BCCAL was performed. After decapitation, the basilar artery vasodilatation index (VDI) and the actual length of the inner elastic membrane (IEM) were estimated. The relationship between the true length of IEM and VDI values was compared statistically using the Mann-Witney -U test. RESULTS: Mean blood pressures were 113 ± 7 mmHg in animals at the beginning of the experiment (n = 24), and 119 ± 9 mmHg in GII and 122 ± 11mmHg in GIII after BCCAL (n = 12). Before decapitation, the mean blood pressures were 115 ± 10 mmHg in GI, 116 ± 10 mmHg in GII, and 127 ± 11mmHg GIII. The DADA values of animals were 20 ± 4mm in GI; 28 ± 6mm in GII and 37 ± 9mm in GIII. The VDI value of BA was 1.390 ± 0.220 in GI; 1.013 ± 0.108 in GI; 0.019 ± 0.011in GII group. CONCLUSION: An inverse relationship was discovered between the DADA/VDI values. BCCAL may lead to severe dangerous histopathological changes at the BA. Lower DADA or higher VDI values may lead to severe basilar enlargement, endothelial losing, inner elastic membrane rupture, and aneurysm formation after BCCAL.

The Evaluation of the Effects of Nanoemulsion Formulations Containing Boron and/or Zinc on the Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats.

Wound healing remains a challenging clinical problem, especially in the presence of diabetes. Diabetic patients have the impaired ability to fight infection and insufficient inflammatory response. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of boronophenylalanine (BFA) and/or Zn-containing nanoemulsion (NE) formulations on wound healing in diabetic rats. MTT and scratch assays were performed to evaluate the proliferative effects of BFA and/or Zn on human dermal fibroblast (HDF) cells and the migration of these cells, respectively. The BFA and/or Zn-NE were prepared, and the effects of NEs on wound healing in diabetic rats were evaluated by applying once a day for 14 days. MTT assay showed that 10 to 25 µM BFA and/or 50 µM Zn had very significant positive effects on cell proliferation. In the scratch assay, 10 µM BFA significantly increased the migration of HDF cell compared with control. The droplet sizes of all the NEs were <115 nm and their zeta potential values were in range of (-) 23.9 ± 2.356 to (-) 33.1 ± 1.438 mV. There was a significant reduction in the wound contraction values (%) of the groups treated with the BFA and/or Zn-NE on the 14th day compared with the untreated diabetic rats group. According to histopathological findings, wound healing was nearly complete in BFA and/or Zn-NE compared with untreated diabetic rats. Especially, the group treated with the NE containing the low concentration of BFA showed highly promising results in wound healing of diabetic rats within 14 days with complete epithelialization and the completely closed wound area.

First emerging evidence of the relationship between Onuf's nucleus degeneration and reduced sperm number following spinal subarachnoid haemorrhage: Experimental study.

Lumbosacral pathologies can lead to infertility. Onuf's nucleus changes in these pathologies may have a role in low sperm number. This study aims to investigate the relationship between Onuf's nucleus degeneration and sperm number following spinal subarachnoid haemorrhage. 22 rabbits were used. They were divided into three groups; five of them were used as the control (GI), five as the SHAM (GII) and twelve as the study groups (GIII). The study group received 0.7 ccs autologous blood into the spinal subarachnoid space at the T12-L1 level. After two weeks, all animals were decapitated, and S1-S3 laminectomy was done. Neurodegenerative changes of Onuf's nucleus, pudendal ganglia (S3) following two weeks after spinal SAH, were examined; sperm numbers were calculated. Degenerated neuron density of the Onuf's nucleus (n/mm3 ), the pudendal ganglia (S3) (n/mm3 ) and mean sperm numbers were calculated as 5 ± 2, 8 ± 3/mm3 and 98.345 ± 12.776/mm3 in the control (GI), 20 ± 5/mm3 , 243 ± 66/mm3 and 91.841 ± 9.654/mm3 in the SHAM (GII), 143 ± 39/mm3 , 2,350 ± 320/mm3 and 68.549 ± 5.540/mm3 in the study group (GIII). In conclusion, there were statistically significant differences between groups. Onuf's nucleus may be responsible for decreased sperm number following spinal SAH.

Toward the first definition of taste rosea in female breasts: histological analysis / La primera definición del sabor rosea en mamas femeninas: análisis histológico

Although various neuropsychochemical theories have been established about why breastfeeding mothers feel hedonic sensation, the underlying neural mechanism has not been adequately clarified. We aimed to investigate if there is hedonic sensation-initiated taste-bud like structures stimulated by sugars in the milk-secreting lactiferous ducts of mammary glands of breastfeeding female rats. In this study, twenty-two female rats were chosen which six of the virgin (n=6), six of pregnant (n=6) and ten of breastfeeding (n=10). We examined lactiferous ducts/nipples of mammary glands of all animals. They were sacrificed following intracardiac formalin injection, and their breast tissues were removed with covering tissues and fixed with 10 % of formalin solution. After current histological procedures, the tissues were examined by light microscope to assess taste-bud like structures, and their numerical densities were calculated by using stereological methods. Results were analyzed statistically. Taste-buds like structures with neuron-like appendages at the apical ends were discovered in lactiferous ducts. The taste rosea numbers were estimated as 3±1/mm3 in virgins, 167±27/mm3 in pregnant and 375±63/mm3 in breastfeeding animals. The taste rosea numbers were greater in breastfeeding rats than those of virgins and pregnant rats. They named as taste rosea resembling flower bucket which has not been mentioned in the literature so far.

Existen varias teorías neuropsicoquímicas, referente a la sensación hedónica que sienten las mujeres al amamantar, y el mecanismo neural subyacente. No obstante, estas aún no se aclaran adecuadamente. El objetivo de este estudio, fue investigar si existen estructuras hedónicas iniciadas por la sensación gustativa estimuladas por los azúcares en los conductos mamarios secretores de leche, de las glándulas mamarias de las ratas durante el período de lactancia. En este estudio, se eligieron 22 ratas hembras, seis de estas no preñadas como grupo control, seis preñadas y diez en período de lactancia. Examinamos los conductos lactíferos / pezones de las glándulas mamarias de los tres grupos. Los animales fueron sacrificados por medio de inyección intracardíaca de formalina. El tejido mamario se fijó en solución de formalina al 10 %. La muestras histólogicas fueron examinadas a través microscopía óptica con la finalidad de evaluar estructuras con características morfológicas similares a las papilas gustativas. Su densidad de número se calculó utilizando métodos estereológicos. Los resultados fueron analizados estadísticamente. En los conductos mamarios se observaron dos estructuras con con características morfológicas tipo papilas gustativas con apéndices neuronales en los extremos apicales. Los números se estimaron en 3±1/mm3 en el grupo control, 167±27/mm3 en gestantes y 375±63/mm3 en animales lactantes. El número de estructuras características morfológicas similares a las papilas gustativas fue mayor en las ratas amamantando que en el grupo control y que en las ratas preñadas. Conocido como sabor rosea debido a que se asemeja a un ramo de flores, lo que hasta ahora no se ha mencionado en la literatura.

The Diagnostic Value of the Changes in the Renal Glomerulus in the Postmortem Diagnosis of Freshwater Drownings.

Drowning is one of the major causes of unintentional injury death worldwide. As there are no pathomorphological findings specific to the diagnosis of drowning, definitive postmortem diagnosis of drowning continues to be a significant problem in forensic medicine. This study aims to present an additional diagnostic sign in cases of freshwater drowning by investigating the histopathological changes of renal tissue in the postmortem diagnosis of freshwater drowning. For this purpose, 103 cases were investigated in which the causes of death were freshwater drowning (n = 45), traffic accidents (n = 33) and acute myocardial infarction (n = 25). Renal corpuscular structures of selected cases were examined stereologically and histopathologically. Renal corpuscle diameter, renal corpuscle surface area, glomerular tuft surface area, and Bowman space were calculated by stereological method. When compared with the glomeruli of the control group, renal corpuscle diameter, renal corpuscle surface area, glomerular tuft surface area, and Bowman space values of kidney tissues of all freshwater drowning cases were found to be decreased (P < 0.001). These changes may be considered as an essential histopathological finding in postmortem diagnosis of freshwater drowning cases.

First definition of burned choroid plexus in acidic cerebrospinal fluid-filled brain ventricles during subarachnoid hemorrhage: Experimental study.

Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) acidosis is the most troubling complication in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) if carotid body (CB) networks are disrupted. However, histopathological examination of the choroid plexus (CP) in acidic CSF has not been evaluated so far. In this study, we aimed to investigate the CP in acidic CSF following SAH. Twenty-eight rabbits were used. Five rabbits were used to analyze CB network (control group; n = 5); seven rabbits were injected 1 mL of saline (Sham group; n = 7); and the rest 16 rabbits were given 1 mL of autologous arterial blood inject into the cisterna magna to create SAH (SAH group; n = 16). Blood and CSF pH values were recorded before/during/after the experimental procedures. Nuclear darkening, cellular shrinkage and pyknosis suggested the presence of apoptosis of epithelial cells of CP. The densities of normal and degenerated epithelial cells of CPs were estimated using stereological methods. The relationship between the pH values and degenerated epithelial cell densities of CPs were statistically compared by Mann-Whitney U-test. The pH values of blood were estimated as 7.359 ± 0.039 in the control group, 7.318 ± 0.062 in the Sham group, 7.23 ± 0.013 in the SAH group. CSF pH values were 7.313 ± 0.028 in the control group, 7.296 ± 0.045 in the Sham group, and 7.224 ± 0.012 in the SAH group. Degenerated epithelial cell density of CP was 25 ± 7 in the control group, 226 ± 64 in the Sham group, and 2115 ± 635 in the SAH group. There was a considerable link between CSF pH values and degenerated epithelial cells of CP (P < 0.0001). This study shows that CB insult causes acidosis of CSF as well as cellular degeneration of CP during SAH. This is the first description of this in the literature.

Electron Microscopic and Immunohistochemical Examination of the Effect of 2-Aminoethoxydiphenyl Borate on Optic Nerve Injury in A Rat Model.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted this study to explore the possible protective effect of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) on experimentally induced optic nerve injury in an acute ischemia-reperfusion (AIR) model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 30 Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into sham, AIR, and AIR+treatment (AIR10) groups. In the sham group, AIR model was not created. In the AIR group, AIR model was created without the administration of drug. In the AIR10 group, 2-APB was administered 10 min before reperfusion. RESULTS: Tissue samples were subjected to histological, immunohistochemical, and electron microscopic procedures. Histopathological examination revealed intense hypertrophic cells, more glial cells, capillary dilatation, and intense demyelination areas in the AIR group compared to those in the sham and AIR10 groups. Immunohistochemical staining demonstrated an increase in Orai1 and STIM1 immunoreactivity in the AIR group but less intense staining in the AIR10 group. Electron microscopy revealed injury in optic nerve axons in the AIR group, whereas this type of injury occurred to a lesser extent in the AIR10 group. CONCLUSION: In rats, store-operated Ca2+ entry in the cell had an essential role in optic nerve ischemia-reperfusion injury, and 2-ABP may have a protective effect on optic nerve injury caused due to AIR.

¿Puede el Líquıdo Amnıótıco Ser una Solucıón Alternatıva de Conservacıón de Órganos para el Almacenamıento Renal en Frío? / Can Amniotic Fluid Be an Alternative Organ Preservation Solution for Cold Renal Storage?

Abstract Introduction: Kidney-transplantation is a life-saving treatment option for patients with chronic renal failure. Preserving the viability of the organ from the removal of the organ until transplantation into the recipient is one of the most essential factors affecting postransplant success. Kidney tissue is exposed to ischemia following removal of the organ from the donor, initiating some cellular events. Amniotic fluid (AF) was previously reported as a preservation solution for the liver, but not for the kidney yet. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of AF as a preserving solution for rat kidneys compared with the University of Wisconsin (UW) and Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK), which are reported to be the most commonly used and preferred preserving solutions. Methods: Forty male Wistar albino rats were used in this study in four experimental groups. Group 1: Ringer Lactate (RL, Control) group, Group 2: HTK group, Group 3: UW group, and Group 4: AF group. A midline incision was performed, and the renal artery was isolated under ketamine and xylazine anesthesia. Solutions relevant for groups (cooled to + 4°C) were used for kidney perfusion. Nephrectomy was applied, and the removed kidneys were placed into + 4°C standard organ storage solution and stored at + 4° C for 12 hours. After 12 hours of storage, samples from the kidney tissues were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin. Histopathological, immunohistochemistry evaluation and apoptosis detection via TUNEL method were performed. Results: The results of the AF group were close to those of the UW and HTK groups. Tubular necrosis and vacuolization were high in the RL solution group when compared to the other ‎experimental groups. Immunohistochemistry staining for all three markers (TNF-alpha, IL-18, and iNOS) was decreased in the amniotic fluid group, similar to the UW and HTK groups. Also, the number of apoptotic cells was decreased in the AF group compared to control. Conclusions: UW, HTK, and AF had similar and higher protective effects compared to the RL solution. Thus, AF may be used as an inexpensive and readily available alternative natural tissue preservation solution.

Resumen Introducción: El trasplante de riñón es una opción de tratamiento que puede salvar la vida de pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica. Preservar la viabilidad del órgano desde su extracción hasta el momento del trasplante en el receptor es uno de los factores principales que influyen en el éxito postrasplante. El tejido renal está expuesto a la isquemia después de la extracción del órgano del donante, lo cual da inicio a algunos eventos celulares. Existen estudios que indican que el líquido amniótico (LA) funciona como una solución de conservación para el hígado, pero aún se desconoce si sucede lo mismo con el riñón. El objetivo de este estudio es investigar la efectividad del LA como solución conservadora para los riñones de ratas, en comparación con la solución de Wisconsin (UW) y la solución de histidina-triptófano-cetoglutarato (HTK), que son los conservantes más utilizados y preferidos. Material y métodos: Se emplearon cuarenta ratas albinas macho de la cepa Wistar en este estudio, en cuatro grupos experimentales. Grupo 1: grupo solución de lactato sódico compuesta (LSC, Control); Grupo 2: grupo HTK; Grupo 3: grupo UW y Grupo 4: grupo LA. Habiendo aplicado anestesia con ketamina y xilazina, se realizó una incisión en la línea media y se aisló la arteria renal. Se utilizaron soluciones relevantes para grupos (enfriadas a + 4° C) para perfusión renal. Se realizó una nefrectomía, y los riñones extraídos fueron colocaron en una solución estándar de almacenamiento de órganos a + 4° C y se conservaron así durante 12 horas. Después de dicho periodo de almacenamiento, las muestras de los tejidos renales se fijaron en formalina tamponada neutra al 10%. Se llevaron a cabo una evaluación histopatológica e inmunohistoquímica y una detección de apoptosis mediante el método TUNEL. Resultados: Los resultados del grupo LA fueron cercanos a los de los grupos UW y HTK. La necrosis tubular y la vacuolización fueron más altas en el grupo de la solución LSC que en los otros grupos experimentales. La tinción inmunohistoquímica para los tres marcadores (TNF-alfa, IL-18 e iNOS) disminuyó en el grupo de líquido amniótico, similar a los grupos UW y HTK. Además, el número de células apoptóticas menguó en el grupo LA, en comparación con el de control. Conclusiones: UW, HTK y LA tuvieron efectos protectores similares y superiores en comparación con la solución LSC. Por lo tanto, el LA puede usarse como una solución alternativa de bajo costo para la preservación de tejidos naturales.

Investigation of the efficacy of daidzein in experimental knee osteoarthritis-induced with monosodium iodoacetate in rats.

BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative chronic illness that most frequently occurs in the knee joint. Daidzein (DZ) an isoflavone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of DZ as a treatment for experimental knee OA (KOA) in rats. METHOD: An experimental KOA model was induced by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) in rats. Thereafter, 49 Wistar albino male rats (250-300 g, 12-16 weeks old) were randomly divided into 7 groups: C (healthy control); DC (KOA + saline); hyaluronic acid (HA); HA+ intraarticular (ia) DZ; oral (po) DZ; ia DZ; HA + po DZ groups. DZ and/or HA were administered intraarticularly to the rats as 50 µL on days 1, 7, 14, and 21. Alternatively, the DZ was administered orally as 0.5 mL twice daily for 21 days. After the treatment, rats were sacrificed by decapitation under general anesthesia. Serum samples were analyzed to determine the total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS) and the levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß, MMP-13, and DZ. Knee joint samples underwent histopathological examination, and TNF-α, IL-1ß, NOS2, and MMP-13 were analyzed with immunohistochemical methods. RESULTS: HA, DZ, and DZ + HA effectively reduced the levels of TNF-α, IL-1ß, and MMP-13 in the serum of the DC group (p < 0.001). In groups that received HA, DZ, or DZ + HA, the serum TAS increased compared with the DC group (p < 0.05). When the DZ + HA combination was used, a more pronounced reduction in the levels of TNFα, NOS2, IL-1ß, and MMP-13 was observed in knee joints. In addition, the cracks on the cartilage surface and fibrillation were completely improved in the groups that received HA, DZ, or DZ + HA compared with the DC group. CONCLUSION: DZ had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in a rat OA model. Therefore, DZ, as monotherapy or especially in combination with HA, may be a promising and beneficial therapy for OA. Key Points •DZ has been shown to reduce TNF-α, IL-1ß, and MMP-13 both in serum and in tissue samples taken from the knee-joints. •The cracks on the cartilage surface and fibrillation in KOA were completely improved by using DZ and DZ + HA combination. •DZ may be useful to eliminate/reduce/ameliorate inflammation and oxidative damage in the pathogenesis of KOA. •DZ, alone or in combination with HA, may be a promising natural compound with beneficial effects in the treatment of KOA.

Levan-based hydrogels for controlled release of Amphotericin B for dermal local antifungal therapy of Candidiasis.

Hydrogels from Halomonas levan polysaccharide were prepared at different crosslinking densities. Swelling results demonstrated pH dependent rather than temperature dependent swelling of the hydrogel and the highest swelling value was achieved at basic conditions with a swelling ratio of 9.1 ± 0.1 which is the highest reported for levan based hydrogels. SEM images show a porous network architecture, which indicates a large surface area of the hydrogels. Rheological analyses showed the viscoelastic behavior of the hydrogels. Biocompatibility of the hydrogels was confirmed by cell culture experiments. For drug release experiments Amphotericin B (AmB) was used. 51% of the loaded AmB was released into the PBS buffer and the released AmB had a significant antifungal activity against Candida albicans.

A new organ preservation solution for static cold storage of the liver. Amniotic fluid.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of amniotic fluid in liver preservation in organ transplantation, and compare it with standard preservation solutions. METHODS: The groups consisted of Group 1: Ringer Lactate (RL) group, Group 2: HTK group, Group 3: UW group, Group 4: AF group. The livers of rats from Group 1, 2, 3, and 4 were perfused and placed into falcon tubes containing RL, HTK, UW, and AF solutions at +4 °C, respectively. The tubes were stored for 12 hours in the refrigerator at +4°C. Tissue samples were taken at the 6th and 12th hours for histopathological examinations of the perfused livers, and storage solutions for biochemical analyzes at 6th and 12th hours. RESULTS: AF was shown to maintain organ viability by reducing the number of cells undergoing apoptosis. Histopathological changes such as sinusoidal dilatation, hydropic degeneration, and focal necrosis were found to be similar to the groups in which the standard organ preservation solutions were used. Additionally, the results of INOS, IL-10, and TNF-α,which were evaluated immunohistochemically, have been shown to be similar to the UW and HTK groups. CONCLUSIONS: AF provided conservation similar to UW and HTK in the 12-hour liver SCS process. The fact that apoptosis values are comparable to standard preservation solutions supports the success of AF in the cold storage of the liver.

Toward understanding the causes of blood pH irregularities and the roles of newly described binuclear neurons of carotid bodies on blood pH regulation during subarachnoid hemorrhage: Experimental study.

Acidosis is the most dangerous complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Although the carotid bodies (CBs) network is essential for pH regulation, neither binuclear neurons (BNN) nor their functions have been mentioned so far in the literature. The aim of this study was to investigate the crucial roles of mononuclear (MNN) or BNN in CBs on acidosis following SAH. Twenty-five hybrid rabbits were used. Five rabbits were used as a control group, six for sham, and the remaining 14 rabbits were used as the study group by injection of 1 mL of autologous arterial blood into the cisterna magna to produce SAH. Normal and degenerated MNN/BNN densities of CBs were counted by stereological methods. The mean blood pH values were: 7.362 ± 0.041 in the control group; 7.324 ± 0.064 in sham, 7.272 ± 0.062 in the SAH group. The degenerated MNN and BNN values were 5 ± 1/mm3 and 9 ± 3/mm3 in the control group; 15 ± 5/mm3 and 22 ± 6/mm3 in sham, 965 ± 113/mm3 and 1532 ± 176/mm3 in the SAH group. Mean pH values were under 7.212 ± 0.130 in animals with prominent degenerated BNN. The differences between MNN/pH changes were significant between the SAH and control groups (P < 0.005); whereas BNN/pH values were significant between the SAH and sham groups (pH < 0.005), SAH and control (P < 0.0001). BNN degeneration could result in more severe acidosis than MNN following SAH which has not been described so far.

Mysterious effects of olfactory pathway lesions on intestinal immunodeficiency targeting Peyer's patches: The first experimental study.

BACKGROUND: Although olfaction has been considered as important neuroimmunomodulatory foundation, there is no satisfying analytical information between neurohistomorphological features olfactory networks and intestinal immune system hardwares. We studied if the olfactory bulb lesions (OBL) may rely on histopathological features of intestinal lymphatic Peyer's patches in an animal model. METHODS: Thirty-two rats were grouped as control (Group I, n = 8), SHAM (Group II, n = 7) and OBL (Group III, n = 17) respectively; and followed eight weeks and animals were decapitated. The olfactory bulbs and intestines were extracted. Specimens stained with hematoxylin/eosin and GFAP methods and analyzed Stereologically to evaluate volume loss of olfactory bulbs and Peyer's patches volumes (PV) of intestines per cubic millimeter and compared with each other's statistically. RESULTS: The mean olfactory bulbs volumes were estimated as 3.65 ±â€¯0.32/mm3 in group I, 3.12 ±â€¯0.20/mm3 in group II and 2.21 ±â€¯0.15/mm3 in group III (p < 0.0005 Group III vs. I and II). The mean of PV were estimated as; (9 ±â€¯2) × 106 µm3/cm3 in Group-I, (12 ±â€¯3) × 106 µm3/cm3 in Group-II; and (23 ±â€¯4) × 106 µm3/cm3 in group-III (p < 0.005 Group II vs. I, p < 0.0005 Group III vs. I-II). CONCLUSIONS: OBL could rely on intestinal immunodeficiency causing by olfaction loss induced denervation injury of Peyer's patches.

The effect of chronic stress and obesity on sperm quality and testis histology in male rats; a morphometric and immunohistochemical study.

OBJECTIVE: Stress and obesity lead structural and functional abnormalities in many organs. This research investigated the effect of these two risk factors on sperm parameters and histologic structure of testis in rat model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-four male rats were divided into four groups with six rats in each group as control, stress, obesity, and stress-obesity groups. The rats of obesity and stress-obesity groups were fed high-fat diet for 12-week and obesity was created. Control and stress groups were given standard rat chow for the same time. Through last 4-week, stress and stress-obesity groups were applied to chronic mild stress procedure. At the end of the experiment, epididymal sperm was collected from vas deferens and testes were harvested from sacrificed animals. Sperm samples were evaluated in terms of concentration and motility by using Makler Chamber. Sperm smears were stained with Eosin-Y stain for morphological evaluation, and also histochemically for GABA transporter-1 (GAT1) expression assessment. Testis sections were dyed with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Johnsen scores were assessed. GAT1 expression was detected in testis sections by immunohistochemistry, and TUNEL method was used for determining apoptosis in testis. RESULTS: In comparison with the control samples in stress, obesity, and stress-obesity groups sperm concentration and motility decreased, and also the number of sperm with abnormal morphology increased. Stress, obesity, and stress-obesity groups showed a significantly decreased in sperm concentration and motility in comparison with the control group, and also in these groups had significantly increased number of abnormal sperm compared to control. Additionally, the testicular structure was deteriorated, and Johnsen scores decreased. And also GAT1 expression and apoptosis were prominent. These negative results, especially, testicular weight, sperm concentration, and Johnsen score were more observed in the stress-obesity group. CONCLUSIONS: Stress and obesity may induce male infertility by disrupting both sperm quality and testis histology. When stress and obesity are coexisting, these adverse effects are more severe. And also, increased GAT1 expression may be associated with these effects.

A new organ preservation solution for static cold storage of the liver. Amniotic fluid

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effect of amniotic fluid in liver preservation in organ transplantation, and compare it with standard preservation solutions. Methods: The groups consisted of Group 1: Ringer Lactate (RL) group, Group 2: HTK group, Group 3: UW group, Group 4: AF group. The livers of rats from Group 1, 2, 3, and 4 were perfused and placed into falcon tubes containing RL, HTK, UW, and AF solutions at +4‎°C, respectively. The tubes were stored for 12 hours in the refrigerator at +4°C. Tissue samples were taken at the 6th and 12th hours for histopathological examinations of the perfused livers, and storage solutions for biochemical analyzes at 6th and 12th hours. Results: AF was shown to maintain organ viability by reducing the number of cells undergoing apoptosis. Histopathological changes such as sinusoidal dilatation, hydropic degeneration, and focal necrosis were found to be similar to the groups in which the standard organ preservation solutions were used. Additionally, the results of INOS, IL-10, and TNF-α,which were evaluated immunohistochemically, have been shown to be similar to the UW and HTK groups. Conclusions: AF provided conservation similar to UW and HTK in the 12-hour liver SCS process. The fact that apoptosis values are comparable to standard preservation solutions supports the success of AF in the cold storage of the liver.

Soft tissue pathosis associated with asymptomatic impacted lower third molars.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of pathological changes in the pericoronal tissue of asymptomatic impacted lower third molars and to assess the correlation between pathological changes and patient demographic, radiographic and morphological characteristics. STUDY DESIGN: Follicles associated with fully impacted lower third molars were submitted for histological examination after surgical extraction from 50 patients. The correlation between pathological changes in the dental follicle and age, gender, depth of impaction, angular position, and coverage and tooth development was analyzed. RESULTS: Cystic changes were observed in 10% of specimens and inflammatory changes in 62%. Incidence of pathological changes was significantly higher in Class B impacted teeth when compared to Class C impacted teeth. A significant correlation was found between epithelial cell activity and the completion of tooth development. CONCLUSION: We recommend monitoring all third molars whether or not they are symptomatic and conducting histopathological analyses on all surgically extracted follicle tissue.